The Himeji Castle in Himeji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in Japan.

The 16th century saw the rise of Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, who were instrumental in unifying Japan under a centralized government.

Kendo, a martial art that uses bamboo swords and protective armor, is a popular sport in Japan and is often taught in schools.